Who is eligible for extended unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

Extended benefits in Washington depend on the state's unemployment rate and federal programs. Right now there aren't any automatic extensions like during the pandemic. Your regular UI claim has a maximum of 26 weeks typically, and when that expires, you'd need to file a new claim if you have sufficient work history.

same boat here, my benefits are running out next month too and im freaking out

I had to deal with this situation last year. When my regular UI ended, I called Washington ESD to see if I was eligible for a new claim. Turns out I had worked just enough hours during my benefit year to qualify for a small second claim. The payment amount was lower but it gave me a few more months of coverage. You should definitely call them before your claim expires to explore your options.

WAIT. I thought there was still extended benefits available? I swear I read somewhere that Washington still has EB programs when unemployment rates are high enough.

The system is so confusing. I remember during COVID there were all these different programs - PEUC, PUA, extended benefits, etc. Now it's back to just regular UI and that's it. Really makes you realize how important it is to save money when you're working.

Have you looked into whether you might qualify for a second regular claim? If you worked during your benefit year, even part-time or temporary work, those hours might count toward a new claim. The benefit amount would be based on your most recent work history though.

Don't forget about WorkSource services too. Even if your benefits end, you can still use their job search resources, training programs, and sometimes there are grants available for career retraining. It's not money in your pocket like UI but it could help you find better employment faster.

this is all making me so anxious, what happens if we dont find work before benefits run out??

I went through this exact situation 6 months ago. My regular UI ran out and I wasn't eligible for a new claim because I hadn't worked enough hours. It was really tough financially but it also motivated me to take jobs I might have passed on before. Sometimes the pressure of losing benefits can actually push you to make moves you wouldn't otherwise make.

Just to clarify the current situation - there are no federal extended unemployment programs active right now. The Extended Benefits (EB) program exists but only triggers when state unemployment rates meet specific thresholds, which Washington hasn't hit recently. Your best bet is to see if you qualify for a new regular claim based on work during your current benefit year.

Pro tip: when you do call Washington ESD, have all your work information ready - dates of employment, gross wages, employer names, etc. They'll need to review your entire work history to determine if you can file a new claim. Also be prepared for a long wait time on the phone.

I wish they made this information clearer on the Washington ESD website. It's so confusing trying to figure out what options you have when your benefits are ending.

Don't panic yet OP. Six weeks is still time to find something, and even if you don't, you might have options for a new claim. Focus on your job search but also call Washington ESD soon to understand your specific situation.

Also remember that if you do end up with a gap in benefits, you can apply for Basic Food (SNAP) and other assistance programs through DSHS. It's not unemployment benefits but it can help cover basic needs while you're job searching.

My brother went through this last year. His regular claim ended but he was able to file a new one because of some seasonal work he'd done. The new claim was only for like 12 weeks and the weekly amount was smaller, but it gave him breathing room to find a permanent job. Definitely worth checking into.

One thing to keep in mind - if you do qualify for a new claim, make sure you understand the job search requirements. They can be stricter for subsequent claims, and you don't want to get disqualified for not meeting the requirements.

Just wanted to add that even if your benefits end, you should keep certifying for any weeks where you're actively looking for work, especially if you think you might qualify for a new claim. Sometimes there can be delays in processing new claims and you don't want to miss out on weeks you're eligible for.

The bottom line is that extended unemployment like we had during COVID is not available right now. Your options are: 1) file a new regular claim if you have sufficient work history, 2) look into other assistance programs, or 3) find employment before your current benefits end. I'd suggest pursuing all three simultaneously.

One last tip - if you end up talking to Washington ESD about a potential new claim, ask them to explain exactly how they calculated your eligibility. Sometimes there are wages or work periods they might miss on first review, and you want to make sure they're considering all your qualifying employment.